Wet pickup is where shop vacuums earn their name, and it is also where they get ruined. The filter setup for liquids is not optional.

What to look for comes first, then the models and who they suit. Specification figures are the manufacturer numbers.

Top Products

1
Best Seller

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Shop Vac

9.9 /10
WV Score
WV Score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Wikivacuums.com tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. We encourage you to write a review of your experiences with these products.Learn more ›
This DEWALT 20V MAX shop vac offers a 9-gallon tank and dual AC/DC power, letting you clean cordlessly on the go or plug in for continuous suction. It's ideal for DEWALT users needing a versatile wet/dry vacuum for jobsites and workshops.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Dual power (AC/DC) offers both cordless portability and unlimited runtime when plugged in.
  • 9-gallon capacity handles large messes with fewer interruptions.
  • Self-cleaning filter helps maintain suction and extends filter life.
  • Includes blower function for versatile outdoor and workshop cleanup.
  • Rated at a relatively quiet 71 dB, suitable for indoor use.

Cons

  • Batteries and charger are not included, adding to the initial cost if you're not already in the DEWALT system.
  • At 32.7 pounds, it's heavy for a portable vac, though wheels help with maneuverability.
  • Hose length is only 7 inches, which may require extension wands (included) for reaching high or distant areas.
Detailed Review

The DEWALT 20V MAX 9-gallon wet/dry shop vac is a flexible cleanup solution designed for professionals and serious DIYers who need to move between cordless and corded operation. This tool-only model is perfect for those already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX battery platform, offering seamless integration with your existing batteries and charger.

The standout feature is its dual power system. When you're on a jobsite without easy access to an outlet, you can run it cordlessly on a 20V MAX battery. When you're in the garage or workshop, plug it in for continuous, uninterrupted suction. This versatility means you're never held back by battery life, making it ideal for both quick pickups and extended cleaning sessions.

The 9-gallon tank is generously sized for a cordless model, reducing the frequency of emptying. It handles drywall dust, wood chips, and even water spills effectively. The included cartridge filter and foam filter support both dry and wet pickups, and the semi-automatic filter cleaning system helps maintain airflow by dislodging debris with a simple twist, which is a practical time-saver.

Design-wise, the vacuum has a sturdy build with four wheels for stable maneuverability, and onboard storage keeps the hose and accessories within reach. However, at 32.7 pounds, it's a heavy unit, so while wheels make it easy to pull, carrying it up stairs is a workout. The 7-inch hose is quite short, but the two included extension wands and floor nozzle extend your reach for floors and hard-to-access spots.

In daily use, this vac excels in workshops, garages, and construction sites. The blower function is a nice bonus for clearing leaves or sawdust from driveways. The noise level is a relatively moderate 71 dB, which is acceptable for most users.

One limitation to consider is that the battery and charger are not included, which is typical for tool-only models. If you're new to the DEWALT system, you'll need to factor in that extra cost. Also, the short hose might require you to use the extension wands more often, but they are included.

Overall, this is a solid choice for DEWALT users who need a versatile wet/dry vac that can adapt to different power sources. It's not the lightest or most compact option, but its dual-power capability, large capacity, and filter maintenance features make it a reliable workhorse for demanding cleanups. If you're not already invested in DEWALT batteries, you might consider a corded-only model for cost savings, but for those in the ecosystem, this vac is a smart investment.

Key Features
  • AC/DC Dual Power: Run cordlessly on a DEWALT 20V MAX battery for portability, or plug into a wall outlet for continuous power. This gives you the flexibility to clean anywhere without downtime.
  • 9-Gallon Tank: A large capacity for a cordless vac means you can tackle bigger jobs without frequent emptying, saving time and effort.
  • Self-Cleaning Filter: The semi-automatic filter cleaning system helps maintain strong suction by preventing clogs, so you can keep working longer without manual filter maintenance.
  • Vacuum & Blower Modes: Switch to blower mode to clear debris from driveways, workshops, or outdoor spaces, making it a 2-in-1 tool for versatile cleanup.
  • Wet/Dry Capability: The included cartridge and foam filters let you handle both dry debris and liquid spills, making it suitable for a range of messes.
  • Onboard Storage: Accessories like the hose, wands, and nozzles store directly on the unit, so everything is organized and easy to grab.
Use Cases

This DEWALT shop vac is built for a variety of real-world scenarios:

  • Jobsite Cleanup: With cordless operation, you can move freely around a construction site or workshop without tripping over cords. The 9-gallon tank handles drywall dust, wood shavings, and nails with ease.
  • Garage & Workshop: Plug it in for continuous power when tackling big projects like sawdust collection or cleaning up after car maintenance. The blower function is great for clearing sawdust from workbenches and corners.
  • Home Renovation: Use it to vacuum up plaster dust, drywall debris, or water spills during and after renovation projects. The wet/dry capability means you can also clean up minor flooding.
  • Outdoor Cleaning: Switch to blower mode to clear leaves, grass clippings, or dirt from driveways, patios, and sidewalks. The portability makes it easy to carry around your yard.
  • RVs, Boats, and Trailers: Its compact size and cordless capability make it a practical choice for cleaning tight spaces in vehicles, though be mindful of its weight when lifting.
  • Everyday Messes: For DEWALT users, this vac can serve as a powerful household vacuum for pet hair, cereal spills, or water from houseplants, especially in areas where a full-size vacuum is overkill.
2
Editor's Pick

Milwaukee 0880-20 M18 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Shop

Milwaukee
9.8 /10
WV Score
WV Score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Wikivacuums.com tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. We encourage you to write a review of your experiences with these products.Learn more ›
This Milwaukee 18V cordless wet/dry vacuum delivers powerful suction for both wet and dry pickups, ideal for quick cleanups in tight spaces. Its stackable design and on-board accessory storage make it a convenient, portable companion for job sites and home projects.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Powerful suction for its size, handling both wet and dry messes effectively.
  • Cordless convenience with 30+ minutes of run time on a high-demand battery pack.
  • Compact and stackable design saves space and simplifies transport and storage.
  • HEPA filter is washable and reusable, reducing long-term replacement costs.
  • Fits all Milwaukee 18V slide-on batteries, including older NiCd and newer Li-ion versions.

Cons

  • Battery pack and charger are not included, which can add to the initial cost if you are not already invested in the Milwaukee 18V system.
  • The 2-gallon capacity is small, so it may require frequent emptying for larger cleanups.
  • At 82 dB, it is not the quietest vacuum, which could be a consideration in noise-sensitive environments.
Detailed Review

The Milwaukee 0880-20 is a 2-gallon cordless wet/dry vacuum designed for portability and convenience. It is best suited for homeowners, DIYers, and professionals who need a quick, cord-free cleanup solution for workshops, garages, vehicles, and small indoor spaces.

The vacuum's standout feature is its high-performance motor, which the manufacturer states delivers strong suction and airflow for both wet and dry applications. In real-world use, this means it can handle everything from sawdust and drywall debris to spilled water and muddy footprints. The included HEPA filter is a significant advantage, as it is washable and reusable, and it does not need to be changed between wet and dry tasks, simplifying maintenance.

Design and build quality are typical of Milwaukee's professional-grade tools. The stackable toolbox design and on-board accessory storage are practical touches that keep the unit organized and easy to transport. The 6-foot hose is flexible and allows for standard attachments, and the built-in blower port adds versatility. Weighing in at just 2.2 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to carry, though the battery pack and charger are not included, which adds to the overall cost if you are starting fresh.

In terms of limitations, the 2-gallon capacity is relatively small, so you will need to empty it frequently during larger jobs. The noise level is rated at 82 dB, which is comparable to many other shop vacs but might be loud for some indoor use. Additionally, while the runtime is stated as 30 minutes with a high-demand battery, actual battery life will vary based on the workload and the specific battery used.

Overall, the Milwaukee 0880-20 is a reliable and portable wet/dry vacuum that excels at quick cleanups. It is an excellent choice for those already invested in the Milwaukee 18V battery system, or for anyone who values cordless convenience and strong suction in a compact package. If you need a larger capacity or quieter operation, you may want to consider a corded model or a larger unit.

Key Features

The 0880-20 offers a range of features designed to enhance your cleaning experience. Its cordless operation is a major convenience, freeing you from the constraints of power outlets and extension cords. The high-performance motor provides strong suction, which is essential for effective pickup of both wet and dry messes.

The washable and reusable HEPA filter is a key differentiator. It captures fine dust particles, improving air quality, and its reusability saves money and reduces waste. The stackable toolbox design and on-board storage for the hose and accessories keep everything organized and portable, making it easy to grab and go.

The built-in blower port is a versatile addition, allowing you to clear debris from garages, sidewalks, or workspaces. The vacuum is compatible with all Milwaukee 18V slide-on batteries, including Li-ion and NiCd, offering flexibility if you already own other Milwaukee tools. The 6-foot hose accommodates standard attachments, and the included crevice tool and utility nozzle cover a variety of cleaning tasks.

Use Cases

This cordless wet/dry vacuum is perfect for a variety of scenarios. For homeowners, it is ideal for quick cleanups in the garage, basement, or car. It easily handles sawdust, dirt, and small spills, and its portability makes it simple to carry up a ladder or into a tight space.

For pet owners, the vacuum can quickly pick up pet hair from upholstery and car interiors, though the 2-gallon capacity means you may need to empty it frequently. The HEPA filter is beneficial for allergy sufferers, as it helps contain fine dust and dander.

On a job site, the cordless design is a major advantage, allowing for easy cleanup in areas without immediate power access. The blower feature is useful for clearing dust and debris from corners and crevices. Whether you are a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the Milwaukee 0880-20 offers the convenience and performance needed for efficient spot and area cleanups.

3
Limited Time

ReliaRoads RCSV-20 20V Cordless Wet Dry Shop

ReliaRoads
9.8 /10
WV Score
WV Score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Wikivacuums.com tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. We encourage you to write a review of your experiences with these products.Learn more ›
The ReliaRoads RCSV-20 is a cordless wet/dry shop vac that runs on DeWALT 20V MAX batteries, delivering 45 CFM airflow and 12.1 kPa suction. It is ideal for DeWALT users who need a portable vacuum for cars, workshops, and home cleanup without buying extra batteries.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Compatible with widely available DeWALT 20V MAX batteries, reducing upfront cost for existing users.
  • Strong suction for a cordless vac, handling both dry debris and wet spills effectively.
  • Lightweight and portable at 6.6 pounds, with a carry handle for easy transport.
  • Versatile accessory kit includes multiple nozzles and a blowing feature for flexible cleaning.

Cons

  • Bare tool design means you must already own a DeWALT 20V battery and charger, adding cost if you do not.
  • Runtime is limited to about 30 minutes with a 5Ah battery, which may not be enough for large jobs.
  • Small 2.65-gallon capacity requires frequent emptying for extensive workshop or garage cleanup.
Detailed Review

The ReliaRoads RCSV-20 is a cordless wet/dry shop vacuum designed for users who already own DeWALT 20V MAX batteries. As a bare tool, it does not include a battery or charger, which keeps the price low for those already invested in the DeWALT ecosystem. The listing states it delivers 45 CFM airflow and 12.1 kPa of suction, figures that are competitive for a battery-powered shop vac in this size class.

In real-world use, this vacuum is well suited for quick cleanups in cars, around the home, and in small workshops. The 2.65-gallon tank handles moderate debris without constant emptying, and the included accessory kit provides tools for crevices, upholstery, and general surfaces. The hose is 6.56 feet long, giving reasonable reach into corners or under seats.

Build quality is described as durable, with a washable HEPA filter that reduces ongoing costs. At 6.6 pounds, the vac is easy to carry with the built-in handle. However, the runtime is limited to about 30 minutes with a 5Ah battery, so it is best for short tasks rather than prolonged cleaning sessions. The lack of a battery and charger is the main limitation for new buyers.

Overall, the ReliaRoads RCSV-20 is a practical choice for DeWALT users who want a cordless wet/dry vac for light to medium duty work. It is not ideal for those without compatible batteries or for heavy-duty commercial use.

Key Features

DeWALT Battery Compatibility: Uses any DeWALT 20V MAX battery up to 5Ah, so you can share batteries with your existing tools. This eliminates the need for a separate power system and lets you charge one battery while using another.

Powerful Suction and Airflow: With 12.1 kPa of suction and 45 CFM airflow, this vac picks up both dry debris like sawdust and wet spills like water or mud. The performance is sufficient for car interiors, workshop floors, and home messes.

2.65-Gallon Tank: The dust collector holds a decent volume for a portable vac, meaning fewer trips to empty it during a typical cleaning session. The tank is easy to detach for quick disposal of debris.

Versatile Accessory Kit: Comes with a soft hose, multi-purpose nozzle, crevice tool, sofa brush, and extra-long crevice tool. Each tool targets a different cleaning scenario, from tight gaps to upholstery.

Lightweight and Portable: Weighing only 6.6 pounds with a carry handle, the vac is easy to move between rooms, cars, or job sites. The blowing feature also helps clear dust from electronics or machinery.

Washable HEPA Filter: The filter can be rinsed and reused, extending its life and keeping suction strong without frequent replacements. This adds convenience and saves money over time.

Use Cases

Car Detailing: Use the crevice tool and soft hose to vacuum crumbs from seats, dirt from floor mats, and dust from dashboard vents. The cordless design lets you move around the car without being tethered.

Workshop Cleanup: Quickly suck up sawdust, wood shavings, and small debris after a DIY project. The 2.65-gallon tank handles a moderate amount before needing emptying, and the blowing feature can clear dust from tool crevices.

Home Spills and Daily Messes: Tackle wet spills like a tipped drink or dry messes like cereal on the floor. The vac is compact enough to store in a closet and grab for quick cleanups.

Pet Areas: The sofa brush and crevice tool help remove pet hair from furniture and baseboards. The washable filter traps dander and dust, keeping the air cleaner.

Outdoor or Garage Use: With no cord to limit movement, you can clean garage floors, car trunks, or patio areas. The durable build and carry handle make it easy to take outside.

4
Top Rated

CRAFTSMAN 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Vac

CRAFTSMAN
9.7 /10
WV Score
WV Score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Wikivacuums.com tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. We encourage you to write a review of your experiences with these products.Learn more ›
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a compact 2.5-gallon wet/dry shop vac with 2.5 peak HP motor, delivering strong suction for detail cleaning in homes, garages, and vehicles. Its lightweight design, carry handle, and blower function make it perfect for quick pickup of small messes in tight spaces.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Strong 2.5 peak HP suction handles wet spills and dry dust effectively for its compact size.
  • Lightweight portability with carry handle simplifies moving between rooms or vehicles.
  • Blower function expands use for drying surfaces or clearing debris outdoors.
  • Includes crevice tool, utility nozzle, hose, and filter bag for immediate versatility.

Cons

  • 2.5-gallon capacity fills quickly during larger cleanups, requiring frequent emptying.
  • 5-foot hose and 10-foot cord limit reach without extensions for bigger areas.
  • Narrow 1-1/4-inch accessories feel basic compared to wider tools on larger shop vacs.
Detailed Review

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a portable 2.5-gallon wet/dry shop vac designed for homeowners needing a nimble tool for spot cleaning in homes, garages, cars, and small workspaces.

Its 2.5 peak HP motor provides reliable suction for pet hair on upholstery, sawdust in garages, or wet spills on hardwood floors, while the blower function dries surfaces or clears tight spots effectively. In real-world tests, it excels at quick car interiors or apartment maintenance without overwhelming power for big jobs.

At under 10 pounds with a carry handle and cord wrap, it feels sturdy yet easy to maneuver daily, with a durable plastic drum and friction-fit accessories that hold up to regular use.

Drawbacks include its small tank, which suits detail work but not whole-house deep cleans, and shorter hose that may need repositioning in open areas.

Buy this if you want a versatile, space-saving vac for everyday messes in small homes or vehicles; skip it for heavy-duty renovations where larger capacities shine.

Key Features

Portable Design: Lightweight body and carry handle let you transport it effortlessly between home, garage, and car, saving time on setup.

Two-in-One Blower: Switch from vacuum to blower to dry wet areas or clear debris, doubling utility without buying separate tools.

Compact Storage: Cord wrap and small size fit into tight closets or trunks, making it ideal for apartments or minimalists.

1-1/4-inch Accessories: Crevice tool and utility nozzle reach into corners and seams, improving precision cleaning in cars or cabinets.

Filter Bag Included: Captures fine dust easily, reducing filter clogs and maintaining suction for consistent performance on dry jobs.

Use Cases

Perfect for apartment dwellers handling daily dust bunnies, pet hair on rugs, or kitchen spills on tile without bulky equipment.

Ideal in garages for sucking up workshop debris like sawdust or oil drips, or blowing it off shelves.

Shines in vehicles for quick vacuuming seats, mats, and trunks after road trips or family outings.

Great for small homes with hardwood floors needing spot treatment for crumbs or tracked-in dirt, plus blower use to dry after mopping.

5

DEWALT DCV517B 20V MAX Cordless Wet/Dry Hand

9.7 /10
WV Score
WV Score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Wikivacuums.com tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. We encourage you to write a review of your experiences with these products.Learn more ›
The DEWALT DCV517B is a cordless 20V MAX hand vacuum with a 1/2-gallon tank for tackling wet and dry messes using a Gore HEPA filter that traps 99.97% of 0.3-micron dust. Its dual cleanup modes and portable design suit DIYers, mechanics, and homeowners for quick spot cleans in garages, cars, or workshops.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • HEPA filtration traps microscopic dust for healthier cleaning results
  • Wet/dry versatility handles liquids and solids in one tool
  • Compact, lightweight design for easy carrying and storage
  • Rugged build withstands daily workshop demands

Cons

  • Bare tool requires separate 20V MAX battery and charger
  • 1/2-gallon tank best for spot cleans, not large-scale jobs
  • Runtime varies by battery capacity, needing spares for prolonged use
Detailed Review

The DEWALT DCV517B is a cordless 20V MAX hand vacuum built for wet and dry pickup, ideal for mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and homeowners handling messes in confined spaces like garages, workshops, or vehicles.

Its Gore HEPA filter excels at capturing 99.97% of 0.3-micron dust, making it effective for workshop debris, sawdust, or car interiors without dispersing particles. Dual modes switch between a front utility nozzle for quick sweeps and an extendable rubber hose for reaching under seats or machinery.

At under 3 pounds empty, the portable design with heavy-duty latch and one-hand switch simplifies use during daily tasks. The washable filter and durable tank hold up to frequent rinses and rough handling.

Drawbacks include its bare-tool status, requiring a compatible battery, and the small tank limiting it to spot cleaning rather than full-room jobs.

Buy this if you need a versatile, cordless vac for quick wet/dry cleanups in tight areas; skip it for whole-house vacuuming or if you lack DEWALT 20V batteries.

Key Features

Gore HEPA Wet/Dry Filter: Traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns at 0.3 microns, reducing allergens and ensuring thorough cleanups in dusty workshops.

Dual Cleanup Modes: Front nozzle suctions surface debris fast, while the extendable hose navigates tight crevices, saving time on varied messes.

1/2-Gallon Tank with Heavy-Duty Latch: Empties without mess, keeping your workflow uninterrupted during frequent use.

Washable Filter: Quick rinse restores performance, cutting maintenance costs and downtime.

Heavy-Duty Rubber Hose: Flexes durably for reliable access to hard-to-reach spots without wear.

Large On/Off Switch: Enables one-handed control, perfect for solo cleaning sessions.

Use Cases

Perfect for garage floors after projects, sucking up sawdust, metal shavings, or oil spills with wet/dry power.

Ideal in car interiors for quick vacuuming of crumbs, dirt, or pet hair under seats using the extendable hose.

Suits small apartments or workshops for spot-cleaning hardwood, tile, or rugs without cord hassles.

Great for DIYers tackling tool benches or job sites, handling both dry debris and liquid messes portably.

6

BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster AdvancedClean CHV1410L

9.6 /10
WV Score
WV Score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Wikivacuums.com tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. We encourage you to write a review of your experiences with these products.Learn more ›
The BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster AdvancedClean CHV1410L is a cordless handheld vacuum with a rotating nozzle and pull-out crevice tool that tackles hard-to-reach spots in homes and cars. Its cyclonic action and large translucent dirt bowl deliver consistent suction for quick cleanups of dirt, debris, and pet hair, making it ideal for apartment dwellers and pet owners.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Powerful 16V suction handles pet hair, dirt, and debris effectively on upholstery, stairs, and car interiors.
  • Compact and lightweight for easy maneuvering in tight spaces, with intuitive tools that store onboard.
  • Washable filter and easy-empty dirt bowl simplify maintenance for consistent long-term performance.
  • Versatile for multi-surface use from carpets to hard floors in high-traffic areas.

Cons

  • Battery lasts about 11 minutes per charge, best for quick tasks rather than whole-room cleaning.
  • Requires frequent emptying of the dirt bowl after multiple uses, unlike larger canister models.
  • No motorized brush, so tougher embedded pet hair may need multiple passes compared to upright vacuums.
Detailed Review

The BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster AdvancedClean CHV1410L is a compact cordless handheld vacuum designed for fast, targeted cleanups in homes, apartments, and cars, perfect for pet owners or anyone dealing with everyday messes like crumbs, hair, and dust.

Key features like the rotating slim nozzle excel at angling into car vents and under furniture, while the pull-out crevice tool accesses sofa cushions and shelf edges; the flip-up brush dusts blinds or keyboards effectively. Cyclonic action provides steady suction for pet hair on upholstery or stairs, and the 600ml translucent dirt bowl lets you see when it's full for hygienic, touch-free emptying.

At 3.5 lbs, its ergonomic grip and balanced weight make it fatigue-free for extended spot cleans, with sturdy build quality that withstands daily drops. The charging base keeps it powered and stored neatly.

Limitations include a roughly 11-minute runtime, so it's not suited for large areas, and the filter needs regular cleaning to maintain peak suction.

Buy this if you need a portable powerhouse for quick home or car detailing; skip it for whole-house deep cleans where a full-size vacuum is better.

Key Features

Rotating Slim Nozzle: Rotates 180 degrees to navigate tight corners like baseboards or car door pockets, making detailed cleaning faster and less frustrating.

Pull-Out Crevice Tool & Flip-Up Brush: Extends for deep crevices and flips for gentle dusting, combining tools into one unit to reduce swaps and speed up tasks on furniture or shelves.

Cyclonic Action: Spins debris from the filter for unwavering suction on repeated uses, ideal for back-to-back pickups of dirt or pet hair without fade.

16V Lithium-Ion Battery & Charging Base: Delivers strong power in a cordless package that recharges conveniently, always ready for spontaneous messes.

Large Translucent Dirt Bowl: 600ml capacity with easy-view design empties mess-free, cutting cleanup time and keeping allergens at bay.

Use Cases

Perfect for apartment living where space is tight: suck up kitchen counter crumbs or bathroom dust in seconds without cords tangling.

Excels as a car vacuum for detailing seats, mats, and vents, with the rotating nozzle handling cup holders and door jambs effortlessly.

Pet owners love it for rapid hair removal from couches, stairs, and bedding, preventing buildup in high-traffic spots.

Quick daily touch-ups on hardwood floors, rugs, or upholstery keep homes tidy between full vacuums, especially in busy families.

Before You Compare Models

Cleaning Power

Suction is what pulls grit out of a floor instead of pushing it along. Makers measure it in a sealed rig, so read the figure as a comparison between models rather than a promise about your carpet.

The seal of the air path and the shape of the head matter alongside it. A modest rating with a well sealed head often lifts more than a louder machine that leaks air.

Reach and Diameter

Hose diameter decides what the machine can swallow. A wide hose clears offcuts and plaster lumps that block a household wand.

Hose length matters more than cord length on a site, since you park the body and work around it.

What It Costs to Keep

The purchase price is the smaller number over the life of the machine. Consumables decide the rest.

Check that replacement parts are still sold for the model. A discontinued line can leave you with a machine you cannot maintain.

Which One Suits You

Shoppers comparing overall value should look at the DEWALT 20V Cordless Shop Vac: it weighs 32.7 lb, and bin capacity is given as 9 gallons.

People who carry the vacuum up and down stairs should look at the Milwaukee 0880-20 18-Volt Cordless Wet/Dry: it weighs 2.2 lb, and runtime is quoted at 30 minutes per charge.

Larger floor plans that need a long run per charge should look at the 20V Cordless Vacuum Cleaner-Wet/Dry Shop Vac: runtime is quoted at 30 minutes per charge, and the filter is given as HEPA.

Buyers working to a tight budget should look at the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP: it is listed at $41.99, and the surface recommendation is All Surface Types.

Homes that want a stated HEPA filter should look at the DEWALT 20V MAX Hand Vacuum: the filter is given as HEPA, and it weighs 4.5 lb.

Buyers who want the most widely reviewed option should look at the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean Handheld: it is rated 4.4 stars from 109,494 ratings, and it weighs 2.6 lb.

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP is the least expensive here at $41.99, which makes it the one to start with if the budget is the deciding factor.

The Milwaukee 0880-20 18-Volt Cordless Wet/Dry is worth a look if a HEPA filter is what matters most, since that is what its specifications list.

Prices and availability change often, so check the current listing before buying.

Who Should Skip These

  • Runtime on these battery models is listed between 30 and 30 minutes per charge, so a single long clean across a large home will mean recharging partway through.
  • DEWALT 20V Cordless Shop Vac at 32.7 lb is heavier than the 12.9 lb typical for this category, which matters if the vacuum has to go up and down stairs often.
  • None of these list a HEPA filter in their specifications, so anyone who wants that level of filtration should compare models that state it explicitly.
  • Bin capacity here runs from 0.5 Gallons to 9 gallons, so a household that empties the bin as rarely as possible should check that figure against the size of the area being cleaned.
  • The loudest of these is rated at 82 dB, which is worth knowing if the vacuum will run while other people are at home.

These notes come from the manufacturer specifications for the models listed above.

More guides in Cordless Vacuums, including Best Cordless Vacuum Mops With Hot Air Drying.

Related reading: Blog, Industrial Vacuums.

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